Employment

Employment

Please visit nrdnet.org/nrds/employment to see other NRD job openings across the state. 

General Application for Employment

Applicants for all positions within the NRD are required to complete this general application form and submit it with other materials. 

Open Positions

Water Resources Technician (York)

The District’s Water Resources Technicians perform a variety of water related tasks to support the Water Department Manager.  This position will focus efforts on groundwater quality monitoring and analysis.  He or she will work with water department staff to enforce the District’s Rules and Regulations as they pertain to groundwater quality and quantity. This will include data collection, working one on one with producers, assistance in education activities, rules enforcement, and violation investigations.

PRINCIPLE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Collect water quality samples following quality assurance and quality control standards
  • Analyze water quality data
  • Assist with producer training
  • Work with producers to fulfill regulatory reporting
  • Work with communities on Wellhead Protection Area Planning
  • Run onsite water quality laboratory
  • Collect water level measurements
  • Perform flow meter installation inspections
  • Other duties as assigned by the Water Department Manger

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor’s Degree or Associate's Degree with 2 years related experience in natural resources, water sciences, environmental sciences, or agriculture
  • Must attain both a Natural Resources Groundwater Technician License and Nebraska Grade V Water Operators License (may be obtained after employment)
  • Hold a valid Driver’s License
  • Ability to work well and communicate effectively with people
  • Capability to work independently and take responsibility for results
  • Use sound judgement in difficult situations to facilitate conflict resolution
  • Effectively present information to management and the public through written and verbal communication
  • Capacity to work in all weather conditions
  • Computer competency a must
  • General knowledge of production agriculture helpful

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are typical of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the duties of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The physical duties for this position include, but are not limited to:

  • Loading and unloading a 4-wheeler from the bed of a pickup or trailer
  • Lifting 25-75 pounds from ground level to overhead
  • Operate monitoring well pumping equipment
  • Operate equipment such as tractors with loaders and lawnmowers
  • Perform laboratory functions where fumes and airborne particles may be present
  • Work near irrigation wells, both combustion engine with power take off (PTO) shafts and noise, and electrical with 480 volts
  • Walk in uneven and muddy terrain

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

The employee is expected to comply with the District’s personnel, drug-free and alcohol-free workplace, and safety policies. While representing the District, the employee will conduct him or herself in a professional manner and avoid actions or comments that would reflect unfavorably on the District.

COMPENSATION

The Upper Big Blue NRD offers full medical, dental, and vision benefits. Life insurance and employer matching retirement are also included. Starting salary $41,000.00-$47,000.

The Upper Big Blue NRD offers:

  • Full medical, dental, and vision benefits within 30 days of hire.
  • Life insurance and long-term disability insurance
  • Affordable dependent health insurance
  • Employer matching retirement
  • 10 Paid holidays
  • PTO for vacation and sick leave
  • Tuition assistance
  • Wellness program

To be considered, please submit an application, cover letter, resume, and contact information including the e-mail addresses for three professional and one personal references. Applicants graduating from college less than 5 years ago please include a photocopy of your college transcript.  Both USPS and electronic formats are welcome. Submit information to Terry Julesgard at tjulesgard@upperbigblue.org no later than March 22, 2024.

The Upper Big Blue NRD is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, age, protected Veterans status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Water Conservationist (York)

The Water Conservationist develops information and educational activities in connection with the Groundwater Management Areas, for both groundwater quantity and quality as it relates to water use efficiency. The goal of these efforts is to spark management changes in district producers to ensure groundwater quantity and quality are sustained as well as other water related tasks to support the Water Department.

PRINCIPLE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Organize and present Groundwater Management Area educational programming
  • Coordinate Groundwater Management Area annual reporting on water use efficiency and provide possible programs outlines to improve implementation of conservation practices
  • Review Groundwater Management Area reports
  • Contribute material for the public relations department regarding water use efficiency topics and programs
  • Present district information to constituents at public meetings
  • Work one-on-one with producers
  • Make use of relational data management software
  • Other duties as assigned by the water department manager

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor of Science Degree preferred or Associate Degree with 5 years’ experience in agronomy, agriculture, agri-business, agriculture communication, or environmental sciences
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Skill in reviewing, proofing, and verifying statistical data
  • Knowledge of agronomic principles
  • Ability to work well and communicate effectively with people
  • Must obtain a Natural Resources Ground Water Technician License (may be obtained after employment)
  • Use sound judgement in difficult situations to facilitate conflict resolution
  • Microsoft Office Suite experience desirable

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are typical of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the duties of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The physical duties for this position include, but are not limited to:

  • Loading and unloading a 4-wheeler from the bed of a pickup or trailer
  • Lifting 50 pounds from ground level
  • Capacity to work in all weather conditions
  • Walk in uneven and muddy terrain
  • Operate equipment such as tractors with loaders, and lawnmowers

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

The employee is expected to comply with the District’s employee handbook, drug-free and alcohol-free workplace policies, and safety policies. While representing the District, the employee will conduct him or herself in a professional manner and avoid actions or comments that would reflect unfavorably on the District.

COMPENSATION

This is a full-time position. Starting salary $56,000 to $62,000 annually. The Upper Big Blue NRD offers:

  • Full medical, dental, and vision benefits within 30 days of hire.
  • Life insurance and long-term disability insurance
  • Affordable dependent health insurance
  • Employer matching retirement
  • 10 Paid holidays
  • PTO for vacation and sick leave
  • Tuition assistance
  • Wellness program

To be considered, please submit an application, cover letter, resume, and contact information including the e-mail addresses for three professional and one personal references.  Both USPS and electronic formats are welcome. Submit information to Terry Julesgard at tjulesgard@upperbigblue.org no later than March 22, 2024.

The Upper Big Blue NRD is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, age, protected Veterans status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Summer Intern Water Department

The Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District is seeking a summer intern for the summer of 2024.  The position will begin in mid-May and run till the start of the fall semester. Dates are flexible.

Work will be conducted from the NRD's office located in York, Nebraska.

Job duties include, but not limited to the following:

·         Installation of soil moisture monitoring equipment at irrigation scheduling demonstrations;

·         Assist in the collection of ground water samples;

·         Conduct inspections of irrigation flow meter installations;

·         Inspection of irrigation equipment;

·         Other duties as assigned

40-hour work week.

Rate of pay is $13.50 per hour.

Working conditions will involve exposure to heat, humidity, dust, and pollen.  Candidates may be required to lift up to 40 lbs., operate an ATV, and interact with agricultural producers and District staff.  This is a great opportunity to gain experience in agriculture, natural resources, or environmental sciences.  Employment preference is given to college students with agriculture, agronomy, water sciences, environmental sciences, and natural resources majors. 

If interested, please send a cover letter, resume, application, and references to:

Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District
Attn:  Terry Julesgard, Water Department Manager
319 East 25th St.

York, NE  68467
(402) 362-6601
tjulesgard@upperbigblue.org

The Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Application deadline is March 31, 2024.

 

Maintenance Worker

SUMMARY

Grounds, building, and recreation area maintenance for the District, including equipment operation; vehicle and equipment servicing; and tree planting crew member.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Maintain District recreation areas, within the guidelines established by the Projects and Programs Department Manager and under site supervisor of Lead Maintenance Worker.
  • Mows district property and easements with skid steer, tractor mounted shredder, riding mower, or hand power mowers.
  • Trims and edges around walks, planting beds, and buildings or shelters.
  • Controls weeds by digging, cutting, or spraying herbicides.
  • Uses insecticides and fungicides, and fertilizes trees, shrubs, and grass as necessary.
  • Plants grass, trees, and shrubs.
  • Waters new and established plantings.
  • Uses chainsaw or other pruning devised to prune shrubs and trees to shape and improve growth or remove damaged branches.
  • Cleans grounds and removes litter.
  • Maintains recreation area trails and roads.
  • Maintains picnic shelters, tables, grills, and restrooms.
  • Repairs fences and gates.
  • Sorts, inventories, and stores seedling trees.
  • Delivers trees to local field offices.
  • Plants seedling trees for District customers, using a tractor mounted planter within the guidelines and supervision of the District Forester.
  • Services District vehicle fleet, including garaging, fueling, cleaning, and periodic preventative maintenance.
  • Services and maintains tractor, skid steer and other equipment.
  • Maintains chainsaws, hand and garden tools, sharpens chain and mower blades.
  • Maintains maintenance records.
  • Performs light maintenance on the office building, including minor repairs, light bulb changing, and ground upkeep.
  • Maintains planting beds and controls weeds.
  • Removes snow from walks and driveways. Arranges for heavy snow removal when necessary.
  • Spreads salt on sidewalks and ramps to prevent ice buildup.
  • Assists Projects Department by performing light project maintenance, such as tree removal, dam outlet works repair, fence and gate repair, and channel mowing.
  • Other duties may be assigned.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

High school diploma or equivalent. Experience in facility management, natural resources, agriculture, or agri-business is a bonus. 

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos. Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to effectively present information one-on-one to customers, clients, and district staff. Good speech and hearing are required in order to communicate effectively with the staff.  Must be able to communicate with fellow staff members is a clear and non-confrontational manner. Must be able to follow instructions given by supervisor. 

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.

COMPUTER SKILLS

Ability to and understanding of the operation of Microsoft Office Suite.  Ability to utilize email, spreadsheet and word processing software.

REASONING ABILITY

Ability to apply commonsense understanding to carry out written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

CDL driver’s license, Nebraska commercial pesticide applicator certificate (may be obtained after hire)

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Must be able to stand, walk, sit, and use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls. Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and taste or smell.  Mobility is required to be able to get around recreation and project sites for maintenance work.  The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Such vision is necessary for equipment operation, and determining condition of vegetation.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently works in outside weather conditions. The employee frequently works near moving mechanical parts and in precarious places and is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, risk of electrical shock, and vibration.

The loud noise level may be occasionally experienced in the work environment.

TO APPLY

To apply, please submit a completed application form, cover letter, and resume to NRD General Manager David Eigenberg. You may submit materials digitally or mail them to the NRD office at 319 E 25th St, York, NE 68467. Applications will be reviewed by March 21.

Seasonal Maintenance Worker

SUMMARY

Maintains the operations, appearance, and safety of District Recreation Areas, facilities, and properties. Performs operation and maintenance duties including, but not limited to, clean-up and upkeep of grounds and facilities, payment collections, engagement with Recreation Area visitors, and assistance with project work as determined. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Includes the following duties, but additional duties may be assigned, as necessary: 

  • Maintain and cleans campgrounds, restrooms, day-use areas, and other District facilities and grounds.
  • Collects and removes litter and debris from camping areas, trash receptacles, shelters, amphitheaters, grills and fire rings, and overall District property grounds. 
  • Monitors and tracks campground usage, collects payments, and enforces District rules and regulations within authority granted. 
  • Engages with Recreation Area visitors and recreation users to build good public relations, answer questions, and respond to needs and issues.
  • Installs, inspects, and repairs kiosks, signs, playground equipment, picnic tables, benches, and other park structures and amenities.
  • As directed by the Supervisor, may assist with landscaping, pruning shrubs and trees, maintaining recreation area trails and roads, and other Recreation Area activities and projects.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty effectively. The following requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

High school diploma or general education degree (GED) and two years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

  • SKILLS & ABILITIES

    • Experience with outdoor maintenance and grounds work. 

    • Communication Skills: Ability to comprehend instructions, guidelines, and other correspondence. Ability to write basic correspondence and complete forms or checklists. Ability to effectively engage one-on-one with recreation area visitors, the general public, and District staff. 

    • Mathematical Skills: Ability to make basic calculations using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Possesses an understanding of various units of measurement.

    • Reasoning Ability: Ability to apply reasonable and sound judgement when solving problems or completing standardized work assignments. Critical thinking and resourcefulness are important when faced with a variety of situations that may or may not have one clear action or response. 

    • Other Skills & Abilities: 

      • Ability to work independently and complete assigned work with little supervision. 

      • Aptitude and experience with light equipment and mechanical repair work preferred. 

      • Experience with building and facility operations and maintenance, and light construction work is helpful. 

  • CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS: Current State of Nebraska driver’s license required.

  • OTHER REQUIREMENTS: The employee is expected to comply with the District’s Employee Handbook and all personnel policies, drug-free and alcohol-free workplace policies, and safety policies. While representing the District, the employee will conduct him or herself in a professional manner and avoid actions or comments that would reflect unfavorably on the District. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to be observant of surroundings and interpret visual and auditory cues when determining a course of action.
  • The employee will frequently need to stand, walk, sit, and use hands to operate or handle objects, tools, controls, and vehicles. The employee is required to reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, and crouch. 
  • The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds above waist height and occasionally lift and/or move up to 75 pounds. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. 

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently works in outside weather conditions, which may include extreme heat and cold at times along with wet conditions. 
  • The noise level in the work environment is occasionally loud.
  • The employee works near lakes and other water bodies, and in areas with various plants, wildlife, and aquatic species. 
  • The employee may work near moving mechanical parts, vibrating equipment, and electrical systems including vehicles, machinery, and motors. 
  • Occasionally, the employee may encounter fumes, pesticides, or caustic chemicals. This also includes exposure to dust and other airborne particulates.
  • The employee may frequently be traveling in a vehicle for long period of time to reach work locations. 


WORK HOURS & SCHEDULE

Up to 19 hours per week on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays with some occasional work on holidays, evenings, special events, and/or for projects. 

COMPENSATION

  • $14.50 to $16.50 per hour

 

TO APPLY

To apply, please submit a completed application form, cover letter, and resume to NRD General Manager David Eigenberg. You may submit materials digitally or mail them to the NRD office at 319 E 25th St, York, NE 68467. Applications will be reviewed by April 1.